Dr. Fido? Five Animals That Might Improve Your Health

Anyone who's ever had a beloved pet knows how they can cheer you up. Dogs and cats are great, but could they--and dolphins and rabbits and Guinea pigs--improve your health? Some say there's something to the idea of animals as therapists.

Animals providing therapy? It's nothing new. In fact, a 1973 survey conducted by a Oklahoma State University psychologist found that 21 percent of therapists in some way "incorporated" animals--such as dogs, cats, rabbits, even guinea pigs--in their therapy sessions and treatments.

Here are five creatures that might be good for your health:

Horses: "Hippotherapy," which sounds a little odd (because we're talking about horses, not hippos), is the practice of pairing horses with people for therapeutic reasons. A contingent of the medical community believes that a ride on a horse, guided by a physical therapist or occupational therapist, could help people with physical disabilities and improve fine motor control, sensory integration, feeding skills, attentional skills, and daily living skills.

__Dolphins:__Could splashing around with Flipper cure depression? Some believe that Dolphin-Assisted Therapy (DTA as it's referred to)--offered in Hawaii, Florida and in the Bahamas (tell me that doesn't sound like fun!)--could be an effective treatment for depression and may have therapeutic benefits for children with autism.

Guinea pigs: These cute little creatures (though don't ask me to hold one--remember my rodent phobia?)--might be able to cheer you up. Dennis, one Guinea pig and his owner, is part of a team of animal therapists that visit people in hospitals, nursing homes and rehabilitation centers in hopes of lifting their spirits during hard times.

Dogs: This is the biggest no-brainer on the list. Perhaps the most popular pet on the planet, dogs, along with other pets, have been shown in studies to increase the lifespan of those who have suffered heart attacks. They're also believed to help people with depression.

Leaches and maggots: Apologies in advance if you have a weak stomach, but these creepy crawlies, which were used thousands of years ago for medicinal purposes, are making a name for themselves in modern medicine, specifically wound care. Though use of these creatures is somewhat controversial, some believe that there are certain cases where a maggot or a leach can remove dead tissue and help a wound heal better and faster than traditional treatment. Here's more, but don't click if you are easily nauseated.